node cookbook

N8N API Node Cookbook

The n8n node lets workflows call the n8n API to work with workflows, credentials, executions, and audits from inside n8n itself.

Independent third-party notes. n8n is a trademark of its owner and is referenced only for compatibility and troubleshooting context.

Quick Answer

The n8n node lets workflows call the n8n API to work with workflows, credentials, executions, and audits from inside n8n itself.

Key Facts

Node purpose
Consume the n8n API inside workflows.
Operation groups
Audit, Credential, Execution, and Workflow.
Workflow object requirement
Create and update workflow operations require name, nodes, connections, and settings.
SSL limitation
Use HTTP Request instead when your server requires SSL client certificate options.

Recommended Steps

  1. Add the n8n node to a workflow.
  2. Configure credentials according to the n8n API authentication docs.
  3. Choose the operation group, such as Workflow or Execution.
  4. Provide the required ID, URL, filter, or JSON object for the operation.
  5. Run a test execution and inspect the returned data.

Verification

  • The node authenticates successfully.
  • The selected operation returns or modifies the expected n8n resource.
  • Workflow changes are visible in the n8n UI or API response.

Warnings

  • API workflows can modify credentials and workflows, so restrict access carefully.
  • For SSL certificate requirements, use the HTTP Request node instead.

Sources